Coffee Woke Up European Industry

A book translated from German in 1992, Tastes of Paradise: A Social History of Spices, Stimulants and Intoxicants, has a chapter on how the introduction of coffee in the late 17th century, literally roused European mercantilism from its beer soaked diet. Just take a look at the recipe for the German breakfast of choice up until the 1700's, beer soup:

“Heat the beer in a saucepan; in a separate small pot beat a couple of eggs. Add a chunk of butter to the hot beer. Stir in some cold beer to cool it, then pour over the eggs. Add a bit of salt, and finally mix all the ingredients together, whisking it well to keep it from curdling. Finally, cut up a roll, white bread, or other good bread, and pour the soup over it. You may also sweeten to taste with sugar.”

Now, I've had beer for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, but that was during a college camping trip with the guys. That was a total dude fest, and nothing beat pouring Weinhardt's dark ale in your frosted flakes. Would I do that again? Um, no comment.